Park Friends
At the park getting work done while J angles to play with a friend who shows up. The friend only wants to play Agents, and after a standoff she walks away until J caves. Perfect, that's all I needed to hear. I call N manipulative; my wife is happy to keep her as a park friend.
I'm at the park with my computer getting some work done. J came along with snacks and toys and the hope that some other friends would show up. Eventually one did. J was overjoyed, but a dispute quickly arose.
J: Would you like to play basketball with me?
N: No. Let's play Agents.
J: We always play that. Did you bring your bike? You could ride around with me?
N: I don't want to ride bikes. Let's play Agents.
They go back-and-forth for a while. Eventually N gets up and starts walking away.
J: Fine. I'll play Agents if that's what it takes to get you to stay.
N: Perfect! That's all I needed to hear.
I text my wife:
